Q: Why are the leaves of my sycamore falling off in midsummer and is there anything I can do to save this tree?A: This is a common disease of sycamore called anthracnose. Fortunately, this disease rarely causes much long-term damage but rather defoliates trees by late summer/early fall. To reduce infection, a natural control is to remove all fallen leaves from your property and have the tree treated for the disease with a systemic fungicide injection.

Q: There are nickel-sized black spots on my maple tree leaves….help!A: It is a common disease called tar spot. It does not hurt the tree, but causes aesthetic damage.

Q: There are tons of red bumps covering my silver maple leaves. What should I do?A: The red bumps are reaction growth caused by Eriophyid mites, which are microscopic mites and often go undetected. Their feeding often results in small galls that form on leaves. Treatment is not necessary because this pest usually causes only aesthetic damage but does not harm the tree's health. Natural ways to reduce future infections include pruning, insecticidal soap, and horticultural oils.

New Trail UPDATE:

Work is progressing on the newest Landis trail, informally named the Hickory Hill Trail after the largest hickory grove in the Arboretum. Hiking the Woodland Trail via the Meeting House parking lot and connecting to the Ancient Forest Trail is my favorite way to access this new trail. From the Ancient Forest Trail’s lowest point, this new trail climbs upward as it makes its way north towards State land. The Hickory Hill Trail will offer a moderately strenuous hike from the lowest elevation point at Landis to the highest, requiring hiking boots or similar sturdy footwear, as it is steep and rocky in sections. The trail showcases several small waterfalls that cascade down a ravine and views of the surrounding landscape. With the help of the Iroquois Pipeline Community Grant, Landis has been able to purchase a chainsaw and hand tools and to hire contract workers to help with labor. This trail is expected to be completed and open to visitors by this fall.